Teleworking has just recently begun to become a business system.  AT&T has made it a point for teleworking to become a business system.  I have listed some of the functions AT&T has used to implement their telworker program.

Telecommunications

The most important function for telecommuting to work is telecommunications.  This is the communication link between the workers home and AT&T.  Without it, teleworking would not be as smooth because communication is essential.  AT&T recommends broad band access to your home because most applications are bandwidth hogs.  Broadband can include cable modem or DSL.  This allows for quicker access to applications and quicker download times.  This also increases productivity.

Security

Security must become more apparent with teleworkers.  AT&T has considered security more by implementing new policies and procedures.  The Intranet needs to be built to consider teleworkers.  No longer can you have an Intranet that stays within your building.  Intranets will expand beyond your zip code.  This needs to be taken into consideration when developing your Intranet. 

Instant Messaging

Instant messaging allows teleworkers to stay connected.  This includes teleworkers to managers, Teleworkers to customers and teleworkers to teleworkers.  Managers can see when someone has signed on to their computer.  This allows for some accountability.  In addition, Instant messaging has replaced the water cooler.  Teleworkers can communicate with each other and send files.  In a way, it is better than a telephone call.  This becomes apparent when you try to spell out a web address over the telephone.

Key Process

            The following describes some key processes.  Most people may not agree the following are “key” processes.  I believe these are the foundations for further processes.  These processes do not directly affect customers but they do determine if the customer walks away thinking positively or negatively about your company and confidence.

Getting Started

Getting started is a process that is more difficult then you think.  Not everyone is tech savvy and able to get all software and hardware working together.  You need to make sure you are able to communicate with the Internet and Intranet.  In addition, Applications need to work and communicate over the Intranet. AT&T has devised a way to help with getting started as a teleworker.  AT&T devised an employee portal for all their teleworkers.  This portal gives employees answers to questions about software and hardware.  This can include how to install voice and data lines.  Also, employees can download programs like anti-viral software.

Training

            Teleworkers and Managers need to be educated.  AT&T has done an excellent job of establishing a process of education.  You can experience their enthusiasm for teleworking by visiting their telework portal at http://www.att.com/telework/.  AT&T has focused on teleworkers and their education.  They also are eager to share this knowledge to other companies.  You notice this on their getting started page.  “We've redesigned this material to better focus on your needs, whether you're an employee seeking to begin teleworking, a manager adapting to the world of telework, or a company looking into instituting a formal telework program for a group of employees.”  AT&T acknowledges education as a key process.

References

http://www.att.com/telework/docs/congressional_testimony.pdf

http://www.att.com/telework/